Introduction
Fluffernutter butter cookies merge the iconic flavors of marshmallow and peanut butter into soft, chewy delights. They embody comfort with every bite, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee or milk. This recipe is not only simple but allows for creativity with toppings and mix-ins.
Imagining the warmth from the oven as these cookies bake fills anyone with joy. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen transforms it into a cozy retreat. With a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful batch that echoes the nostalgic taste of childhood treat sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Butter acts as the foundation of the cookie's texture, contributing to its soft and chewy consistency. Softened butter helps in blending with the sugars, ensuring creamy and smooth dough. - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the cookies while also affecting the structure. It helps create a light and airy texture by incorporating air into the mixture during creaming with butter. - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor. Its higher moisture content contributes to the chewiness of the cookies and balances the sweetness. - 1 large egg
The egg binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the cookies. It also aids in leavening for a lighter texture while giving a slight lift. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies, providing depth and a warm sweetness. It rounds out the taste of peanut butter and complements the marshmallow. - 1 cup creamy peanut butter
Peanut butter delivers the signature flavor of the Fluffernutter cookies and contributes to their rich, creamy texture. It also provides healthy fats that keep the cookies soft. - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Flour is the primary structure builder in cookies. It aids in forming the cookie's shape and provides a sturdy base while allowing for a tender crumb. - 1 teaspoon baking soda
Baking soda is the leavening agent that helps the cookies rise during baking. It creates lift and a perfect chewy texture when activated with the wet ingredients. - 1/4 teaspoon salt
Salt balances the sweetness of the sugars and enhances the overall flavor. It helps bring out the nutty notes of peanut butter and the richness of butter. - 1 cup mini marshmallows
Mini marshmallows add an essential fluffiness and sweetness reminiscent of a traditional Fluffernutter. They melt and create pockets of gooeyness within the cookies.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Preheating the oven ensures that your cookies bake evenly and properly. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking, making clean-up easier and ensuring a crisp bottom.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Creaming the butters and sugars incorporates air, essential for achieving that light, tender texture. Beat it until the mixture is pale and fluffy to ensure the cookies rise properly during baking.
Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
Incorporating the egg adds moisture and binds the dough together. The vanilla deepens the flavor, making the cookies more aromatic. Aim for a smooth, homogenous mixture.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Whisking the dry ingredients not only combines them but also aerates the flour. This prevents clumping and ensures an even distribution of the baking soda, which is vital for uniform rising.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Adding the flour mixture gradually helps prevent over-mixing, which can cause tough cookies. Mix until no flour streaks remain, but don’t overdo it; a few lumps are okay!
Step 6: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows.
Folding in marshmallows carefully ensures they’ll be evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking apart. This step is crucial to achieve pockets of gooeyness in your finished cookies.
Step 7: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Proper spacing allows the cookies to spread without merging into each other. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon ensures consistent sizes for even baking.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Baking until the edges are just golden while keeping the centers slightly underbaked achieves a perfect soft, chewy texture. Keep an eye on them, as overbaking can lead to dryness.
Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooling on the sheet helps the cookies set and prevents breakage when transferring. The brief rest allows carryover heat to finish baking the centers, ensuring they remain chewy.
Elevate with Chocolate
For those who crave a richer treat, adding chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate over your fluffernutter cookies can take them to the next level. The combination of peanut butter, marshmallow, and chocolate creates a stunning flavor profile that balances sweetness and savoriness beautifully. Simply fold in a cup of chocolate chips at the same stage when adding marshmallows, or garnish with a drizzle after baking.
Nutty Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of nut butter, such as almond or cashew, to put a twist on the classic fluffernutter. Each nut brings a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to create a personalized version of these cookies. Just ensure that the nut butter is creamy and well-blended to merge seamlessly into the dough.
Creative Mix-ins
Enhancing your fluffernutter cookies with creative mix-ins can bring an exciting twist. Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for crunch, or incorporating toffee bits for added sweetness. These additions not only change the texture but also introduce delightful flavors that complement the core ingredients perfectly.
FAQs
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This can firm up the dough and make it easier to scoop and handle.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4 cup, but be mindful that this may affect the cookie's texture and sweetness balance.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough before baking. This helps solidify the fats in the dough, preventing too much spread during baking.
How do I prevent my cookies from getting hard as they cool?
Removing cookies from the oven when they are just slightly underbaked ensures they remain soft as they cool. Their carryover heat will finish baking them perfectly without becoming hard.
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, chunky peanut butter can be used for added texture, but it may slightly alter the dough's consistency and the cookie's final texture.
What can I do if my cookies are too bland?
If your cookies taste bland, consider adding a pinch more salt or an extra splash of vanilla. These elements can enhance the overall flavor significantly.
Conclusion
Fluffernutter butter cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of your childhood with a simple cookie experience. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet profile are sure to please adults and kids alike. Each bite evokes comfort, turning even a mundane day into a delightful treat.
Baking these cookies can become a cherished tradition, allowing you to share sweet moments with family and friends. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared at gatherings, they capture the essence of homemade goodness.
Recipe Card
Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the potatoes by washing, peeling, and slicing them thinly.
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Heat gently until just warmed.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes, and sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese to create a second layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
